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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 2026
CONTACTS: Jackie Parker, Miriam Dotson 239-338-3500
What’s New from Fort Myers – Islands, Beaches and Neighborhoods
LEE COUNTY, Florida (U.S.A.) – June brings sun-warmed Gulf waters and bright blue skies set the scene for days that drift from island hopping and paddling trails to fresh catches, nature encounters and arts and culture. Visit the Visitor Digital Guide to begin planning.
3 Lee County restaurants earn MICHELIN Guide Florida honors
The Fort Myers-area culinary scene has earned statewide recognition with three local restaurants included in the 2026 MICHELIN Guide Florida:
- Liberty, Fort Myers
- The Bohemian, Bonita Springs
- Canary Club, Bonita Springs (also awarded a Bib Gourmand distinction for good quality, good value cooking)
The MICHELIN Guide is considered one of the world's most respected restaurant rating systems and serves as a trusted resource for travelers seeking exceptional dining experiences. The recognition further elevates the destination’s appeal for both visitors and residents exploring the area's diverse culinary offerings.
More reasons to celebrate this month
Celebrate National Seashell Day with gifts from the sea
There’s nothing quite like the joy of walking on a beach and searching through seashells to find that perfect lightning whelk, alphabet cone or the prize: a junonia. These natural treasures have inspired us each year to dedicate June 21, also the first day of summer, as National Seashell Day to celebrate the seashells that wash onto our shores every day of the year.
With more than 50 miles of award-winning beaches and over 400 species of seashells that often cover the white sands, there’s no other place quite like the Fort Myers area for shell hunting. Visitors come from all over the world to search for unbroken seashells on our shores. In fact, Sanibel Island is known as the “Seashell Capital of the World” because of its unique east-west orientation that brings countless seashells in pristine condition to its white-sand beaches.
Travel + Leisure says Sanibel is the “Seashell Capital of the World.”
In its comprehensive article on planning the perfect getaway to Sanibel Island, Travel + Leisure says: “This Peaceful Florida Island Is the ‘Seashell Capital of the World’ — With 400+ Shell Species and No Traffic Lights.” travelandleisure.com/sanibel-island-florida-11926426
In addition to Sanibel Island, shell seekers also visit Fort Myers Beach, Captiva Island, Bonita Beach and Lovers Key. Cayo Costa State Park and North Captiva Island are available by boat. visitfortmyers.com/national-seashell-day
Explore Sanibel Island's Wild Mile Pass 2.0
Now that season has wrapped up, take a day trip and visit some of the area’s popular, natural attractions. Earn points and prizes through April 1, 2027, with this mobile-exclusive pass that includes:
Download pass and to immerse yourself in the island’s legendary conservation story. Here you can take a deep dive into its reputation as a Seashell Capital of the World, hike miles of island forest and wetlands, visit an animal hospital to learn about the island’s diverse wildlife or explore one of the nation’s most fascinating national wildlife refuges.
How it works:
- Visit any location in the pass and earn points when you check in.
- Special monthly events give you the chance to accumulate even more points.
- Redeem points for prizes.
- Check in to 14 locations and you’ll be entered for a chance to win a grand prize that includes giveaways from your favorite Sanibel Island stores and restaurants.
Sign-up is easy and free. Check details at visitfortmyers.com/digital-passes/sanibel-wild-mile
Protecting our wildlife
Each May, we witness the beginning of sea turtle nesting season, which runs through Oct. 31. And like our visitors, who return year after year to enjoy our beautiful beaches, the loggerheads return to the same beach time after time to deposit their eggs.
Our destination is known for its wildlife. That’s why sea turtle nesting season is so special to those of us who live here as well as to the visitors who travel from all over the world to experience it. This ritual is one of nature’s miracles and we all play a part in protecting our natural resources.
A fun fact is that sea turtles are among the world’s oldest creatures. The seven species that can be found today have been on the earth for about 110 million years. Most common to our area is the loggerhead sea turtle, which lives to be 40-60 years old. They are big – they weigh 250-400 lbs.
Tips to protect our wildlife
Shield your lighting so that it is not visible from the beach. Sea turtles go toward the light instead of heading for the water.
When enjoying our beaches, take a bag and remove any litter that you may find on your walk. Balloons, plastic bags, foam and other non-degradable pollutants can cause the deaths of sea turtles if mistaken for food.
At the end of the day, take in beach furniture and fill any holes when you leave.
Observe a nesting sea turtle from a distance. Don’t shine lights on or around her or she may abandon her effort to nest. Forgo taking photos or using smartphones and stay far away where she cannot see you as she crawls back to the water.
Turtle resources
For more information about sea turtle nesting season and how you can help, contact the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) at sccf.org/what-we-do/protect-wildlife/sea-turtle-program or Turtle Time, Inc. at turtletime.org.
Check out details on how you can help protect and support sea turtles or adopt a nest, at these organizations:
CROW opens Harkey Sea Turtle Complex
CROW (Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife) on Sanibel Island celebrated its first step in a journey to once again rehabilitate sea turtles with Harkey Sea Turtle Complex, which replaces a facility demolished by Hurricane Ian in 2022. With funding provided by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation and donors, the new state-of-the-art facility has larger tanks, heaters and chillers, ionization filters, and other features to elevate the care of turtle patients.
The nearly $3 million facility will also include cameras to allow the CROW team to evaluate and the public to witness firsthand the sea turtles’ recovery process. crowclinic.org
New marine life at Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium
Many popular species such as the queen conch, horse conch, giant clam, flamingo tongue snail, lined seahorse, California sea gare, giant triton and red abalone are on view at the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium on Sanibel Island.
And several new species have recently been added, including flamboyant cuttlefish, California two-spot octopus, disco clams and thrush cowries. One of the most popular on view is a playful giant Pacific octopus, which the Museum welcomed in October. The largest species of octopus in the world, the giant Pacific octopus has eight arms, three hearts, blue blood and weighs an average of 90 lbs. shellmuseum.org
Accommodations news
Pointe Estero Resort, Fort Myers Beach reopens
Following extensive renovations, the Fort Myers Beach property has reopened for visitors. Located on the south end of the beach, the refreshed accommodations, enhanced amenities and reimagined spaces include 60, one- and two-bedroom suites and two penthouse suites. Check details and make reservations at pointeestero.com
Beachview Villas to open in 2026
Beachview Villas on Sanibel Island plan to open this year with 22 Gulf-view villas. Check for reservations at beachview-villas.com
Happy 100th Birthday, Tarpon Lodge
A century of history and Old Florida charm, with views of Pine Island Sound, greet visitors for overnight stays and dining for lunch and dinner. Check out details at tarponlodge.com
Shangri-La Springs in Bonita Springs celebrates 100 Years
Established in 1926, Shangri-La Springs, a historic hotel nestled on over 8 lush acres in the heart of Bonita Springs, is celebrating 100 years. The tranquil oasis offers a boutique hotel experience, a full-service organic spa, a farm-to-table restaurant featuring produce from an on-site garden, and a busy calendar of community events. Check out details and plan a visit soon at shangrilasprings.com
Welcome back: Casa Ybel and Thistle Lodge on Sanibel Island
After three years, the luxury all-suite resort has reopened following extensive renovations. Beginning a new chapter on Sanibel, the beachfront property is accepting reservations for accommodations. casaybelresort.com
Under construction
- Captiva Island Inn, opening late 2026
- HomeTowne Suites by Red Roof, Fort Myers, 2026
- Lake Shadroe Resort & Marina, Cape Coral, early 2027
- Hampton Inn at Bell Tower, Fort Myers, early 2027
- Cambria Hotels, Fort Myers, late 2027
Visit Fort Myers partners with Kind Traveler
Visit Fort Myers is proud to be the first Florida destination to partner with Kind Traveler, an acclaimed innovator in sustainable travel. Participating hotels, adventure operators and experience providers, and their nonprofit partners, offer a chance for visitors to give back with a portion of their booking going to a local organization that supports sustainable travel. Check accommodations and their nonprofit partners at visitfortmyers.com/kind-traveler
Attractions news
Beat the Heat beach walks
Join an expert from the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium and learn about the shells found on our beaches. Walks run on specific dates June through October. Check for details and dates at: shellmuseum.org/learn-and-experience/field-education
City of Sanibel designated as a Florida Trail Town
The Office of Greenways and Trails within the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, has designated the City of Sanibel as a Florida Trail Town. The designation recognizes communities that embrace and support trail users through exceptional recreational opportunities, connectivity, amenities, and outdoor experiences. Sanibel joins a growing statewide network of more than 20 designated Florida Trail Towns, further strengthening Florida’s reputation as one of the nation’s premier destinations for outdoor recreation and trail tourism.
Known for its natural beauty and commitment to alternative transportation, Sanibel Island features approximately 26 miles of shared use paths, allowing residents and visitors to safely explore beaches, parks, shopping districts, restaurants, wildlife preserves and neighborhoods by bicycle or on foot. The extensive path system has long been one of the community’s signature amenities and offers a relaxing and scenic way to experience the island.
To learn more about Florida’s Trail Town Program, visit: floridadep.gov/parks/ogt/content/trail-town-program
For information about Sanibel’s shared use path system, visit mysanibel.com/318/Bike-Hike-on-the-Shared-Use-Path
Celebrating 100 years
Matlacha, the tiny town with its colorful buildings, art, shops, spectacular sunsets, fresh seafood and Old Florida fishing town charm, recently celebrated 100 years. It’s a special place that you can’t resist as you approach Pine Island.
To learn more about this special neighborhood that draws locals and visitors alike, visit visitfortmyers.com/neighborhoods/matlacha
Lovers Key State Park free programs this month
Take a “Walk on the Wildside” and other free programs this month at Lovers Key State Park. Check topics and signup at loverskey.eventbrite.com
Murals tell the story of area’s unique culture and history
Discover vibrant murals throughout our islands, beaches and neighborhoods, each offering amazing photo ops, interactive fun and a fascinating look at our unique culture and history. These murals were created in partnership with the Fort Myers Mural Society, a nonprofit dedicated to preserving local history and fostering community pride through artistic expression. Check them out here and put them on your list for your next visit. visitfortmyers.com/murals
Walks with CREW in Bonita Springs
Check out the walks and programs offered this month at CREW in Bonita Springs. Each year, more than 100,000 people visit CREW Trust’s four trail systems to explore more than forty miles of marked hiking, biking, and equestrian trails, as well as outdoor pavilions, primitive campsites, elevated boardwalks, and observation platforms. crewtrust.eventbrite.com
Explore and win prizes with Parks, Points & Perks
Discover some of the top parks, beaches, preserves and recreation centers, all while earning points for exciting rewards. This free pass gives you the chance to explore new spots you might never have visited before, plus enjoy popular locations across our islands, beaches and neighborhoods. Check out new ways to kick off summer fun and win great prizes through April 24, 2027.
Go to visitfortmyers.com/ParksPass to check out locations and to sign up. Pass will be delivered to your phone via text and email and you are ready to participate.
Select your location, plan a visit and start having fun.
- Visit any location in the pass and earn 20 points when you check in.
- Special monthly events give you the chance to add up even more points.
- Earn rewards like a drawstring backpack, and unlock choices for memberships, parking passes or recreation center access.
- Check in at 20 locations on the pass, and you will be entered for a chance to win a grand prize, a two-night stay at DoubleTree by Hilton Fort Myers at Bell Tower Shops and a Family Fun Day at Lakes Park.
Dining & entertainment
Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre in Fort Myers has been named #6 on USA Today’s 10BEST Readers’ Choice Awards for 2026. The popular venue has been serving dinner and great shows for 30 years. broadwaypalm.com
Blossom & Brie named top brunch spot
The North Fort Myers open-air, farm-to-table dining experience has been named one of the best brunch spots in Florida by USA Today Florida Network. A favorite among locals and visitors, it serves weekend brunch, lunch and dinner. blossomandbrie.com
Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) news
New air service at RSW. For more information, visit flylcpa.com
Breeze Airways
- NEW Madison, Wisconsin (MSN), weekly starting Oct. 21
- NEW Atlantic City, (ACY) starting Oct. 22
In the news
Fort Myers recognized in Midwest Living
As a winner of its Best of the Midwest Awards 2026, the destination was featured on the list of the Best Warm-Weather Destinations of 2026. midwestliving.com/bomw-warm-weather-destinations-11909055
Highlights include:
- “Natural beauty and cultural riches await among the islands, beaches, and neighborhoods of this heavenly haven in southwest Florida.”
- “Historic homes include the Edison & Ford Winter Estates, where the fellow inventor-snowbirds lived next door to each other.”
- "Fort Myers Beach beckons with a wide stretch of sugary sand. Wildlife and nature preserves abound, such as the highly regarded J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge."
Travel + Leisure says Sanibel is the ‘Seashell Capital of the World’
In its comprehensive article on planning the perfect getaway to Sanibel Island, Travel + Leisure says: “This Peaceful Florida Island Is the ‘Seashell Capital of the World’ — With 400+ Shell Species and No Traffic Lights.” travelandleisure.com/sanibel-island-florida-11926426
The New York Times places to travel in 2026
Sanibel and Captiva Islands included in The New York Times article about 52 places to travel in 2026. Jennifer Reed writes about the “Post-hurricane comeback story in the Gulf,” mentioning the Bubble Room, Shalimar Beach Resort, Bailey Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium and She Sells Sea Shells. She also notes that “now open” signs describe the celebratory mood. nytimes.com/interactive/2026/travel/places-to-travel-destinations-2026.html
Festivals and events
National Seashell Day
June 21
visitfortmyers.com/national-seashell-day
30th annual MangoMania
July 11
pineislandchamber.org/chamber-events/mangomania
Island Hopper Songwriter Fest
Sept. 18-27
island-hopperfest.com
41st Cape Coral Oktoberfest
Oct. 17-19 & 24-26
German-American Social Club
capecoraloktoberfest.com
Art in the Wild
Oct. 20-22
J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge
dingdarlingsociety.org/art-in-the-wild
REVIVE! Trash to Fashion Couture Collection Show
Nov. 4
Sundial Beach Resort and Spa, Sanibel Island
dingdarlingsociety.org/revive
Sanibel Island Writers Conference
November tba
FGCU
fgcu.edu/siwc
36th annual American Sand Sculpting Championship, Fort Myers Beach
Nov. 19-23
fmbsandsculpting.com
38th Fort Myers Beach Christmas Boat Parade
Dec. 5
fortmyersbeach.org
2027 Festivals and Events
42nd annual Cape Coral Art Festival and Market Place
January tba
capecoralartfestival.com
36thth Tour De Cape in Cape Coral
January tba
Rotary Park
tourdecape.net
ArtFest Fort Myers, downtown Fort Myers
Feb. 5-7
artfestfortmyers.com
Cape Coral Friends of Wildlife 9th Annual Ground Owl Day
February tba
Pelican Baseball Complex
ccfriendsofwildlife.org/events/2026/ground-owl-day
89th Edison Festival of Light Grand Parade, Fort Myers
February tba
Downtown Fort Myers
edisonfestival.org
25th annual Burrowing Owl Festival, Cape Coral
February tba
Rotary Park Environmental Center
ccfriendsofwildlife.org/burrowing-owl-festival-2
Southwest Florida Ag Expo
Feb. 25-March 7
Mike Greenwell Regional Park
swflagexpo.com
Spring training
Boston Red Sox
February-March tba
mlb.com/redsox/spring-training
JetBlue Park, Fort Myers
Minnesota Twins
mlb.com/twins/spring-training
February-March tba
Lee Health Sports Complex/Hammond Stadium, Fort Myers
90th annual Sanibel Shell Festival, Sanibel Island
March tba
Sanibel Community House
sanibelcommunityhouse.net/shell-festival
28th annual Southwest Florida Reading Festival, Fort Myers
March 6
Fort Myers Regional Library, downtown Fort Myers
readfest.org
Fort Myers Beach Lions Club Shrimp Festival
March 13-14
fortmyersbeachshrimpfestival.com
Taste of the Islands event
March tba
Sanibel City Hall
tasteoftheislands.org
12th annual Bonita Springs Short Film Festival
April tba
Prado Stadium
bonitaspringsfilmfestival.org
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EDITOR’S NOTE: Fort Myers - Islands, Beaches and Neighborhoods includes: Sanibel Island, Captiva Island, Fort Myers Beach, Fort Myers, Bonita Springs, Estero, Cape Coral, Pine Island, Matlacha, Boca Grande & Outer Islands, North Fort Myers, Alva, Buckingham and Lehigh Acres. For more information, go to visitfortmyers.com.
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